It’s a great time to be a ‘geek.’ Not only have we been treated to a Marvel and DC cinematic universe but now the Star Wars universe is up and running too. We truly are a lucky bunch! Two films in and already both movies have been a big hit with fans from all over the world. The Star Wars franchise has an almost institution like quality to it, with many passionate fans taking their love for the movies in all sorts of crazy directions. Whilst the original trilogy is revered by fans, the prequels have unfortunately divided the vast majority.
Whether it was the extreme use of CGI or the childlike tone, the prequels have come under heavy fire amongst both longtime fans and critics. It seems however that Rian Johnson, director of Star Wars: Episode VIII, is more than happy to defend the prequels as witnessed over on Twitter recently when two writers debated the ‘failures’ of Episode I – III.
Sci-fi author, Saladin Ahmed, who is known for writing Throne of the Crescent Moon, tweeted:
“While the prequel sucked, their main problem isn’t that they sucked, it’s that they were a bad idea.”
This then led to writer Jeer Heer to respond:
“Completely agree — prequels were bad idea even apart from poor execution. Ideally, Star Wars would exfoliate away from past to new stories.”
Johnson then decided to take things in another direction by suggesting the prequels had some merit with the following tweet:
“Pssst, Devil’s advocate: the prequels are a 7 hour long kids movie about how fear of loss turns good people into fascists. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯”
The prequels are an interesting trilogy of films to say the least. Although they’re nowhere near as iconic or spectacular as the originals, they did at least have plenty of imagination and were able to push the boundaries of filmmaking through the use of CGI.
It seems as if Disney have done their best to avoid referencing the prequels with their recent release of Star Wars films which have a tendency to harken back to the original trilogy. With plenty of fan service, it seems as if Disney have decided to play it safe for now as they try to reestablish the franchise to a whole new audience whilst also pleasing fans of the original. If one things for sure, Episode VIII will be the biggest test yet as answers to many of the question left in Episode VII are bound to be answered.
I hope.
*Return of the Jedi isn’t a very good film. Let’s face it! DAMN EWOKS!
Are you excited for Episode VIII? Were you a fan of the prequels? Sound off down below!